Participate in an online poll to discover what features instinctively guide people when choosing a mate. Consider which traits, both physical and social, are "universally" considered attractive to potential mates, and why.

Psychology is designed to meet scope and sequence requirements for the single-semester introduction to psychology course. The book offers a comprehensive treatment of core concepts, grounded in both classic studies and current and emerging research. The text also includes coverage of the DSM-5 in examinations of psychological disorders. Psychology incorporates discussions that reflect the diversity within the discipline, as well as the diversity of cultures and communities across the globe.Senior Contributing AuthorsRose M. Spielman, Formerly of Quinnipiac UniversityContributing AuthorsKathryn Dumper, Bainbridge State CollegeWilliam Jenkins, Mercer UniversityArlene Lacombe, Saint Joseph's UniversityMarilyn Lovett, Livingstone CollegeMarion Perlmutter, University of Michigan

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

Explain the basic principles of the theory of evolution by natural selection
Describe the differences between genotype and phenotype
Discuss how gene-environment interactions are critical for expression of physical and psychological characteristics

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

Appreciate the diversity of interests and foci within psychology
Understand basic interests and applications in each of the described areas of psychology
Demonstrate familiarity with some of the major concepts or important figures in each of the described areas of psychology

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

Describe areas of the brain involved in sleep
Understand hormone secretions associated with sleep
Describe several theories aimed at explaining the function of sleep